The Doobie Brothers have been California-based dispensaries of smokin' numbers since 1971. Now, just into their fifth decade together as a group they are showing no signs of slowing down - although they might have mellowed just a little bit. On November 2, 2011 the three core members and guitarists of the band - Pat Simmons, Tom Johnston and John McFee - with their 5-piece support staff provided nearly two-hours of entertainment that had the raucous house at the BergenPAC on their feet early and often, clapping, singing along, and just listening to the music.

The Doobie Brothers take a well-deserved bow after their fine show at the BergenPAC.

The Doobie Brothers music is heavy on harmonies with elements of country, jazz, rock, soul and swamp. In a live setting many of their songs are expanded with jamming. They have sold million of records in their long and storied career. They are known for a string of hits including "Long Train Runnin' ", "China Grove, "Takin' It to the Streets" and "Black Water". For much of their history the group has seen its share of turnover. Since the mid-nineties The Doobie Brothers have established a stable core that includes several original members.

In 2010, The Doobie Brothers released World Gone Crazy. The CD has the classic Doobie Brother's sound in a modern context. The 13 track album features fine storytelling and sassy instrumentation. The CD was produced by Ted Templeman and some versions include a DVD compilation of live performances and TV appearances that spans their career.

The spirited show at the BergenPAC opened with "Jesus Is Just Alright" which showcased the band's signature harmonies and triune guitar style. Double drums and solid base lines added to the revival. "Dangerous" was a dynamic rocker with the core sizzling on their guitars backed by their daunting rhythm team with a saucy sax solo completing the jam.

The stage set up was simple with gear and a large circle to the left of the audience that was used for art and images. The circle in conjunction with lights added to the mood of the moments. The feisty and fun mood continued with "Rockin Down The Highway", which was enhanced with the images of road signs flashing on the screen.

"Take Me In Your Arms" and "Clear As The Driven Snow" were engaging and energized. At this point they mentioned the new album World Gone Crazy and played a number of tracks from it. The songs were tuneful and thought provoking. The Doobies are seasoned players and made a point of getting the crowd to clap along to the new material, thus keeping their audience's attention. The songs also made good use of other instruments such as the dobro and violin.

"Far From Home" was a sentimental and shimmering song dedicated by singer Pat Simmons to support the men and women in uniform who are serving. The title track "World Gone Crazy" was about New Orleans with a Cajun kick and horns.

The Doobie Brothers returned to their classic catalogue with "Takin' It To The Streets" and "Don't Start Me Talkin" a Sonny Boy Williamson cover that had a blues rock format. The song featured smoking key and guitar solos. "Black Water" was another fan favorite with it's acoustic funky feel good vibe. "Long Train Runnin" featured vibrant jams and good use of visuals.

The encore included a catchy "China Grove" and a winning "Without You" with groovy graphics and guitar leads. The band finished with "Listen To The Music" with a 45 spinning in the circle and fans happily singing the familiar hook line and ending the show on a high note!

In 2011, the Doobies Brothers have been celebrating their 40th anniversary in style. The band continues to travel the world on their never-ending tour and they're even expanding their fan base this far down the road.

With their first album in a decade they teamed up with Willie Nelson on one track and the strength of the disc resulted in performances at the Grand Ole Opry and a CMT Crossroads with Luke Bryan. The new record has also spawned successful singles on the AC and Country charts. The guys also spent some time in Hong Kong where they helped raise more than $10 million to support education for needy children.

The Doobie Brothers played a good mix of classic and contemporary tunes at their concert in Englewood. They are all apt at their craft and based on the smiles that we saw on their faces they still love playing music together. Their well-received concert at the BergenPAC was evidence enough that they still have the good stuff!

Nov. 2, 2011 - SETLIST:
01. Jesus Is Just Alright
02. Dangerous
03. Rockin' Down The Highway
04. Take Me In Your Arms
05. Clear As The Driven Snow
06. Nobody
07. Far From Home
08. World Gone Crazy
09. The Chateau
10. Takin' It To The Streets
11. Don't Start Me Talkin' (Sonny Boy Williamson cover)
12. Little Bitty Pretty One (Bobby Day cover)
13. Black Water
14. Long Train Runnin'
-- Encore --
15. China Grove
16. Without You
17. Listen To The Music

The Doobie Brothers Live Lineup:
Guy Allison - Keyboards/Vocals
John Cowan - Bass/Vocals
Tom Johnston - Vocals/Guitar
John McFee - Guitar/Strings/Vocals
Tony Pia - Drums
Marc Russo - Saxophones
Pat Simmons - Vocals/Guitar
Ed Toth - Drums

Veteran members John McFee, Pat Simmons and Tom Johnston have kept the train running and humming along.

Related Links: For more information on the DOOBIE BROTHERS and the other organizations mentioned please visit the following links -- Doobie Brothers | BergenPAC.org

(Originally Published on November 04, 2011)